Simple Yet Effective Ways To Keep Your Laptop Running Longer   by John Marcus

in Computers / Laptops    (submitted 2011-08-08)

If you are like most people you can't afford to buy a new laptop every couple of years. In order to maintain your laptops lifespan for the long haul, you really should follow a few key steps. You would be surprised how a easy a few of these steps are that will save you a lot of money and a lot of headaches in the future.

Keep your laptop locked
This may seem like an unneeded step but it's really crucial for work laptops or if you happen to do anything import in public view. Locking up your laptop when you are not in front keep prying eyes off of any important information you don't want other people to see.

Keep you vents clean
A blocked vent on your laptop can quickly spell disaster. Try to check to see if all of your laptops vents are clean and clear. If your vents get jammed or even worse, stop functioning you can destroy your CPU.

Don't forget your fans
Potentially worse than a clogged vent is a cooling fan that is not working, without a fan your CPU and other components will overheat. You can usually tell your fan is working because you can hear it spinning. But, to be on the safe side I would install software to test it out.

Store carefully
While it may seem like a no brainer, make sure you completely power off or put your laptop into sleep mode before tucking it away into a laptop bag. If you've ever left your laptop on in a confined space you know how incredibly hot it can get. Be careful. This can not only damage your computer but it can also start a fire!

NO LIQUIDS
This is another simple yet often forgotten rule for laptops. Much like your cat, laptops do not like water. Make it a habit to never ever have any drinks on or around your computer.

Dreaded dust
Dust is a major pet peeve of mine. I just can't stand it on or inside my computer. I religiously use computer dust spray to try and keep my laptop spotless. I also take apart my laptop and spray off the motherboard and fans as well. I do not recommend this for the novice computer user or any for laptops still under warranty. Opening up your laptop can void your manufactures warranty.

It's really not difficult to properly maintain your laptop. Doing some really simple maintenance once in a while will keep your laptop operational for quite a while. If you don't have the luxury of purchasing a new system every few years definitely take precautions so your investment lasts longer.

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